The spectral variability of Triton from 1997–2000

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• 作者：Hicks ; Michael D. ; Buratti ; Bonnie J.
• 关键词：Triton ; Satellites of Neptune ; Satellite surfaces ; Photometry ; Spectroscopy
• 刊名：Icarus
• 出版年：2004
• 出版时间：September, 2004
• 年：2004
• 卷：171
• 期：1
• 页码：210-218
• 全文大小：297 K

文摘

We present the results of a three-year observational program of long-slit spectroscopy and UBVRI photometry of Triton. We find evidence for short-lived albedo variations at wavelengths less than 0.5 μm with the most notable reddening event measured in October 1997 and “normal” colors returning by May 1998. We report a possible variation in the relative 0.73/0.89 μm methane absorption band strengths, suggesting that the transport or denudation of this species may play a major role in the reddening events.